Weekly Register: Taylor Swift Takes Over Country Charts

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Taylor Swift. Photo: Beth Garrabrant

Taylor Swift‘s Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) tops the country albums chart this week with 716K in total consumption (507K album only/259 million song streams). Swift also dominates the country streaming songs chart, landing three of the top five slots, according to Luminate data.

Morgan Wallen‘s One Thing At A Time moves to No. 2 on the country albums chart after its long reign on top with 104K (4.3K album only/125 million song streams), while his Dangerous: The Double Album slides to No. 3 with 46K (902 album only/58 million song streams). Zach Bryan‘s American Heartbreak stays at No. 4 with 31K (1.9K album only/38 million song streams), and Luke Combs‘ Gettin’ Old shifts to No. 5 with 31K (2K album only/35 million song streams).

On the country streaming songs chart, Wallen’s “Last Night” prevails at No. 1 with 23 million new streams. Swift’s “I Can See You (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)” scores No. 2 on both the country and all-genre chart with 21 million streams. Combs’ “Fast Car” lands at No. 3 with 18 million new streams. Swift’s “Mine (Taylor’s Version)” takes No. 4 with 16 million streams, and “Back To December (Taylor’s Version)” secures No. 5 with 15 million streams.

Round Hill Music Promotes Lindsay Will, Hires Taylor Antle

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Lindsay Will, Taylor Antle

Round Hill Music has promoted Lindsay Will to Sr. Director, A&R. The company has also added Taylor Antle to its staff as Director, A&R.

Will, an Arkansas native and MTSU grad, joined Round Hill in January of 2021 after beginning her career at Liv Write Play. In her new role, she will oversee the Round Hill Nashville A&R department and the company’s roster of hit songwriters while also signing and developing new talent. Will reports to Round Hill Sr. VP/General Manager, Mike Whelan.

Taylor is an Oklahoma native and Oklahoma State University graduate. He began his career as a Production Manager and Sound Engineer as well as working for AVL production companies in the Nashville area. At Round Hill, Antle will focus on supporting the A&R staff and assisting the company’s roster of songwriters.

“I’m so thankful to be working with Lindsay and Taylor” says Whelan. “Lindsay brings energy and passion to work every day. Her instincts on spotting and signing great writers and artist/writers has impressed me so much. We are blessed to have her at Round Hill.”

He adds, “Taylor is such a great addition to our creative team as well. His drive to win and want to be the best fits the overall philosophy of this staff. I look forward to sharing in all the future success at Round Hill Music.”

Round Hill Music Nashville’s roster includes hit songwriters includes Zach Crowell, Kevin Griffin, Blair Daly, Marti Frederiksen, Scott Stevens, Zac Maloy, Adam Sanders, Blake Chaffin, Danielle Blakey, Nathan Wilson, Renee Blair and Jared James Nichols.

Opry Country Christmas To Return For Third Year

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Charlie McCoy and The Gatlin Brothers perform alongside Santa Claus during the inaugural Opry Country Christmas season in 2021. Photo: Chris Hollo/Grand Ole Opry

Opry Country Christmas is returning to the Grand Ole Opry for a third year with a slew of performers ready to deck the halls.

The nine-show series will feature special performances by Spotlight Artists including Opry member Lauren Alaina (Nov. 29), Scotty McCreery (Dec. 3), Trace Adkins (Dec. 7), Lady A (Dec. 11) and Chris Janson (Dec. 18), with more to be announced soon.

Hosted by Opry member Larry Gatlin, Opry Country Christmas will showcase favorites and standards from the holiday season beginning Nov. 26 and running through Dec. 18. Each show features Opry members The Gatlin Brothers, Riders In The Sky, Mandy Barnett and Country Music Hall of Famer Charlie McCoy. Other Opry members, special guests and spotlight artists will round out the shows with original songs and timeless Christmas favorites.

All Opry Country Christmas shows will air on WSM Radio as well as WSM and Opry digital platforms. Tickets are available now. For more information, click here.

Opry Country Christmas 2023 Dates: 
Sunday, Nov. 26
Wednesday, Nov. 29
Sunday, Dec. 3
Thursday, Dec. 7
Sunday, Dec. 10
Monday, Dec. 11
Thursday, Dec. 14
Sunday, Dec. 17 (Matinee)
Monday, Dec. 18

Riley Clemmons To Release Third Album ‘Church Pew’ In September

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Riley Clemmons has announced that her third studio album, Church Pew, will be released on Sept. 22 via Capitol Christian Music Group, and released the title track on Friday (July 14). The 11-track album, co-produced with Jeff Pardo, marks Clemmons’ first credit as Executive Producer as well as a season of self-discovery and reflection after burnout and depression. The resulting body of work follows that journey and demonstrates who she is at her core.

“It feels as though my entire life has been leading up to the creation of this record,” she shares. “With that said, this album was born from the lowest and toughest point in my life thus far. During an ongoing battle with depression and anxiety and navigating what felt like a true identity crisis, I took a step back from music and creating to live life.

“I was able to pause long enough to rediscover what I loved and resonated with sonically and lyrically, as I began to allow myself the space to naturally evolve, change and grow. Church Pew sounds and feels like my DNA. I’m ready and excited for everyone to hear this new side of my heart, artistry and music. This chapter is going to be a special one.”

Clemmons released the third song from the album and its namesake, “Church Pew,” which explores all the pivotal moments that happen within a church pew. The song follows the release of “Loved By You,” which has already surpassed over 1.5 million streams worldwide since its release, and “Miracle,” which is nearing one million streams in its first two weeks.

Jon Freeman Exits Rolling Stone

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Jon Freeman

Nashville-based writer and editor Jon Freeman has left Rolling Stone. After more than seven years with the company, Freeman’s position was eliminated and his last day was Friday (July 14).

In addition to writing and editing for the publication, Freeman helped to oversee the Rolling Stone Country vertical. He interviewed a wide range of performers from Dolly Parton and Tim McGraw to Jason Isbell and Brandi Carlile. In 2021, Freeman wrote on multiple occasions about the wealth of LGBTQ+ voices in country and roots music.

The Alabama native began his career at MusicRow Magazine, rising from Chart Director to Managing Editor in his nearly eights years at the company. In 2012, Freeman became the Deputy Editor at Country Weekly where he stayed until he joined Rolling Stone in 2015.

In addition to Rolling Stone, his work has appeared in NPR Music, the Nashville Scene and Vinyl Me Please.

Freeman can be reached at freemanjm@gmail.com.

Emily Ann Roberts Just ‘Can’t Hide Country’ This September

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Emily Ann Roberts is set to release her first full-length album, Can’t Hide Country, on Sept. 22.

Recorded at Starstruck Studios and produced by Grammy winner Trent Willmon, the project features collaborations with Ricky Skaggs and Vince Gill, among others, and shows Roberts’ dedication to crafting authentic country music that mirrors what she grew up on. She co-wrote 12 out of the 13 tracks, which reflect on her journey as an artist and a young woman navigating life’s ups and downs through a mix of modern and classic country elements.

“My debut album, Can’t Hide Country feels like finally stepping into who you are. For years I tried to ride the line and please everyone with my music and now all I care about is being honest and sharing stories and moments that mean something real to me,” says Roberts. “If someone needs to know who I am, this record makes it plain and clear. From celebrating the little things in life, to a love beyond my wildest dreams, to anthems for all the ladies in my life about standing up for what they deserve in a relationship, to songs of encouragement to know you’ve got a reason to keep on going, this album takes you through so many emotions and seasons we face in life. I could try to be someone I’m not, but at the end of the day, no matter what I do, I can’t turn it off and I just can’t hide country.”

Additionally, The NBC’s The Voice season nine runner-up graced the Grand Ole Opry stage for the 17th time on Friday (July 14), and stopped by MusicRow in May to share her story as well as some songs featured on the forthcoming collection.

Can’t Hide Country Track Listing:
1. “Whole Lotta Little” (Emily Ann Roberts / Trent Willmon / Jeremy Spillman)
2. “Chickens” (Emily Ann Roberts / Trent Willmon / Paul Overstreet)
3. “Infinity” (Emily Ann Roberts / Stephanie Chapman)
4. “Keep On” (Emily Ann Roberts / Chris McKenna / Chase McDaniel)
5. “He Set Her Off” (Emily Ann Roberts / Parker Welling / Seth Mosely)
6. “Find Me A Man” (Emily Ann Roberts / Steve Fee / Jesse Reeves)
7. “Walkin’ Shoes” (Emily Ann Roberts / Chris Utley / Nicole Croteau / Kaylin Roberson)
8. “Out Of Sight” (Emily Ann Roberts / Jerry Salley / Mike Rogers)
9. “Loves Me For My Heart” (Emily Ann Roberts / Michael Farren / Phillip Lammonds)
10. “Devil Wears Denim” (Emily Ann Roberts / Trent Willmon / Autumn McEntire)
11. “Still Searching” (feat. Vince Gill & Ricky Skaggs) (Jerry Salley / Phillip White)
12. “Can’t Hide Country” (Emily Ann Roberts / Melissa Fuller)
13. “The Building” (Emily Ann Roberts / Michael Farren)

Logan Crosby Recounts ’23 Days In L.A.’ On New EP

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Logan Crosby. Photo: Marisa Braden

Country newcomer Logan Crosby has released his debut EP, 23 Days in L.A., a collection carved out of some time spent on the west coast and a whirlwind romance.

Throughout the five-song project, Crosby weaves fans through a love story that is over almost as quickly as it started. Co-written by Crosby and co-produced by Jonathan Singleton and Ben Simonetti, the 23 Days in L.A. EP kicks off with “Run Away With You,” an introduction to a rollercoaster love affair that captures the excitement of the young love and freedom of a new, addictive summer romance.

The journey continues with “Ain’t Nothin’ Like Lovin’ You,” “A Little Sunburnt, A Little Drunk,”  “Whiskey Smoke,” and the title track, “23 Days in L.A.” where Crosby concedes to ending the relationship. As he recounts the memories from their time together, he reflects on the lessons learned from the whirlwind that was 23 days in L.A..

“23 Days in L.A. tells a story we’ve all been through, myself included,” shares Crosby. “You find somebody, you love them as hard as you can, and for some reason, they still walk away. Every emotion from my time in California is in this project and I hope it connects with you. Since I was four years old, all I’ve ever wanted to do was write and sing songs, so I want to thank y’all from the bottom of my heart for coming on this journey with me.”

Following his breakout success as a star of ABC’s debut season of Claim to Fame, Crosby is on the road to country stardom, and will once again join Megan Moroney as direct support this fall on her “The Lucky Tour.” Fans can also find Crosby featured on comedian Heather McMahan‘s latest episode of her “Absolutely Not” podcast.

23 Days IN L.A. Track List:
1. “Run Away With You” – (Logan Crosby, Billy Dawson, Chase McDaniel)
2. “Ain’t Nothin’ Like Lovin’ You” – (Logan Crosby, Billy Dawson, Allison Veltz Cruz, Ben Williams)
3. “A Little Sunburnt, A Little Drunk” – (Logan Crosby, Mark Holman, Jonathan Singleton)
4. “Whiskey Smoke” – (Logan Crosby, Jacob Hackworth, Gabe Foust)
5. “23 Days in L.A.” – (Logan Crosby, Allison Veltz Cruz, Jonathan Singleton)

‘All Access’ To Close Its Doors In August

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AllAccess.com has announced it is ceasing operations on Aug. 15 after 28 years in business.

The shuttering of the longtime radio and industry publication comes due to a marked decrease in revenues that makes moving forward impossible, according to a statement on the company’s website, which will remain online for an undetermined amount of time.

“This is without question the saddest and most heartbreaking moment of my professional life to have to tell you that AllAccess.com will cease publishing and will be going out of business,” says Founder, President/Publisher Joel Denver. “All Access began nearly 28 years ago and with the help of an amazing staff of professionals, the best in the business. We’ve weathered many changes and obstacles in the industry over these years. We’ve carved an incredible path and have taken each part of our operation to amazing levels of success through honesty, hard work, and passion for the radio industry, the music, the artists and our many readers, marketing partners, clients and our many contributing editors. Thank you all so much—we could not have done any of this without you.

“The goal has always been to provide cutting edge content for all sectors of our business. We’ve strived to provide the best and most credible Net News coverage, help people find jobs and stay connected. We have been blessed with wonderful partnerships and have created many valuable services for all parts of the radio and music businesses and have the support of nearly 100,000 active users.”

All Access has four Nashville-based staffers: Nashville Bureau Chief Phyllis Stark; Contemporary Christian Editor Todd Stach; Country Editor/Promotion Jeff Lynn; and Associate Country Editor Charese Fruge. Denver reports although the company is closing, he is not retiring from the business and will focus on new opportunities.

Industry Ink: Clint Black, Chris Lane & Riley Green, OnRamp, Mary-Clair

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Clint Black Marks 50th Episode Of ‘Talking In Circles’

Talking In Circles With Clint Black celebrates 50th show.

Talking In Circles With Clint Black celebrated the taping of its 50th show this week. The show airs every Saturday night at 9 p.m. CT on Circle TV, immediately following the Grand Ole Opry. Now in its fourth season, the concept of Talking In Circles is similar to Inside The Actors Studio with musicians and comedians. Previous guests on the program have included Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Terry Bradshaw, Sammy Hagar, Dennis Quaid, Patricia Heaton, Kevin Nealon, Joe Bonamassa and more.

Chris Lane & Riley Green Entertain CRS Board During July Meetings

Country Radio Seminar (CRS) Board and CRS Agenda committee members with Chris Lane

Red Street Records artist Chris Lane offered an entertaining pause during the the Country Radio Seminar (CRS) Board and CRS Agenda committee July planning meetings. The performance provided a nice interlude during the annual meetings, which revolve around the meticulous planning of CRS 2024. Scheduled to take place from Feb. 28 to March 1, the Omni Nashville Hotel will once again host CRS in 2024. Riley Green also offered up a few songs to break up the days during planning.

ACM & Black Music Action Coalition Host Mixer For OnRamp Program

Pictured (L-R, back row): Amari Young, Kendall Warner, Qualls, Chasidy Lauderdale, Carmen Dianne, Kim Ortiz and Nick Tabron; (L-R, middle row): ACM DEI Task Force Chair Shannon Sanders, Larysa Jaye, Tatyana Carter, Jasmine Bavaro, Erica Baker, The Kentucky Gentlemen’s Brandon Campbell and Derek Campbell and ACM CEO Damon Whiteside; (L-R, front row): Roz Malone, Dede Neahn West, Tae Lewis, Julie Williams and ACM Vice-Chair Ebie McFarland. Photo: Courtesy of ACM

The Academy of Country Music and the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) kicked off their OnRamp program yesterday (July 13) with a launch mixer held at the Academy’s Nashville headquarters, bringing together the 20 members of the inaugural class for young Black members of the music community alongside ACM leadership, board members, industry supporters and program mentors. OnRamp focuses on improving inclusivity and equity within Music City and aiming to empower the next generation of leaders in the early stages of their careers by granting access to professional development opportunities, mentorship, industry exposure and other opportunities. Each participant will receive a monthly stipend for one year. Half of this year’s inaugural class are artists; the other half come from across the industry and range from attorneys to audio engineers, publicists to business managers.

Mary-Clair Inks With Vere Music & Brickhouse Entertainment

Mary-Clair & Tedd T.

Vere Music and Brickhouse Entertainment have signed pop singer-songwriter Mary-Clair.

The 19-year-old Nashville native recently teamed up with songwriter and producer Tedd T., who has penned hits for Celine Dion, Tauren Wells and more, for her debut single “Heaven in the Way,” which is available now.

“As a new artist Mary-Clair has already built an impressive team including Tedd T. and Brickhouse Entertainment,” says Rusty Harmon, President of Vere Music. “Mary-Clair’s vocals and songwriting are undeniable. Vere is excited to join this team and partner with this obvious up and coming talent.”

Track45 Shares What They ‘Grew Up On’ Through New EP

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Country music sibling trio Track45 has released their new EP Grew Up On via BBR Music Group/Stoney Creek Records.

Made up of Ben, Jenna and KK Johnson, the group shares memories of their upbringing while exploring young heartbreak, valuable life lessons and more on the six-track project. They produced the entire collection and co-wrote the majority of the songs alongside Michael Hardy, Ashley Gorley, Jonathan Singleton and Taylor Phillips, among others.

“We recorded this collection of songs as we were saying goodbye to many relationships in our lives,” says Track45. “We always want to be honest about the highs and the lows of life and we hope you can hear that in the music. There are some breakup anthems, nostalgic retrospections and some feel good songs mixed in. It’s a journal of us celebrating the experiences and people that have made us who we are and closing the chapter on situations that weren’t right anymore.”

The opening track “Drinkin’ And Thinkin'” finds the band reminiscing on a lost love, while the title track opens a time capsule of memories from their youth and reflects on the traditions that made them who they are today. They put their witty songwriting on display with “Hate Me” and “Last Man In Tennessee.” Grew Up On also includes “PCH,” an ode to a vacation fling and the final track “Family,” a country version of a song the siblings originally wrote for David Guetta that featured Bebe Rexha, Ty Dolla $ign and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, which ends with a message of gratitude for bonds that transcend blood.

Grew Up On Track Listing:
1. “Drinkin’ And Thinkin'”
2. “Grew Up On”
3. “Last Man In Tennessee”
4. “Hate Me”
5. “PCH”
6. “Family”